Politics · Philippines Bureau
Palace urges Dela Rosa to surrender over ICC warrant
Malacañang called on Senator Ronald Dela Rosa to voluntarily surrender to authorities to prevent potential violence, following his indictment by the International Criminal Court for crimes against humanity.
LSN Philippines ·
MANILA — The Philippine government on Wednesday appealed to Senator Ronald "Bato" Dela Rosa to surrender peacefully, citing concerns over potential bloodshed if authorities attempt to arrest him on an International Criminal Court warrant.
The call from Malacañang comes after Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla warned that efforts to apprehend the former Philippine National Police chief could result in significant casualties. Remulla previously cautioned that an arrest attempt could lead to approximately 10,000 deaths, underscoring security risks associated with forcibly detaining the senator.
Dela Rosa faces an ICC warrant for alleged crimes against humanity related to the Philippines' drug war operations. The senator has maintained his position on the charges, while the government has grappled with the legal and security implications of his indictment by the international court.
The appeal represents a diplomatic approach by the administration to resolve the matter without triggering violent confrontation. Government officials have indicated that voluntary compliance would be the preferred course of action to ensure public safety and resolve the international legal proceedings.